Empowering workers to manage their own path to health and wellness is an avenue employers have begun to emphasize.

When Carousel Industries of North America Inc. administered a third-party health-assessment questionnaire prior to the start of its wellness program, management was afforded real data on the behaviors of its employees relative to the knowledge of their health.

A dedicated internal wellness intranet site hosts the tools necessary to maintain good health. The site allows users to ask questions of a doctor, provides preventative screening checklists, and features monthly trials, such as the sugar challenge and walking campaign.

To promote the wellness program, Carousel works with a consultant, along with wellness champions – employee volunteers who provide ongoing coaching and support.

A reward is given for obtaining an annual physical. The second incentive is achieved by completing the monthly goals requiring the submission of a two-week tracking log. Employees earning enough points are eligible for a grand prize. Rewards include cash, contribution to a HSA/FSA, or paid days off for completion of such initiatives.

The program hopes to improve employees’ physical and mental health, along with having a positive impact on claims, premiums and morale.

“Six months into our wellness program, we have had 30 percent of our population complete their annual physicals,” said Gail Hynes, director of human resources. •

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